Although technically classified as a hallucinogen, marijuana has some similarities to depressants.
For example, marijuana users often report a feeling of relaxation.
Marijuana also tends to lower blood pressure and depress the functioning of the digestive system.
Like Alcohol, marijuana reduces people's inhibitions and impairs memory and motor skills.
Marijuana may also depress male sex hormones and hasten the loss of brain cells.
Researchers have discovered that the active ingredient in marijuana, a compound called THC
mimics natural substances in the brain, called cannabinoids that control the release of the neurotransmitter dopamine.
THC and the natural cannabinoid work through indirect means to increase the amount of dopamine released.
In particular, regions of the limbic system are involved.
One area of the limbic system that is most particularly affected is the hippocampus
which is important in the making our short-term memories permanent.